Can You 3D Proont an AK-47?

Published on October 29, 2018
Duration: 7:51

This video demonstrates the catastrophic failure of a 3D printed AK-47 receiver when attempting to fire a 7.62x39mm round. The experiment highlights critical design differences between AK and AR-15 platforms, explaining why the AK's locking lug system places immense stress on a receiver material unsuitable for 3D printing. The test concludes that 3D printing an AK receiver with current technology is not feasible due to material limitations and design stresses.

Quick Summary

3D printed AK-47 receivers fail because the AK's design relies on locking lugs within the receiver/trunnion to handle immense stress. Unlike an AR-15 where the bolt locks into steel, the plastic receiver couldn't withstand these forces, leading to catastrophic failure upon firing.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: 3D Printed Guns & AK Experiment
  2. 00:29Build Specs: 3D Printed AK Receiver
  3. 01:19Test Setup: Ammo & Remote Trigger
  4. 02:04The Test: Receiver Explodes!
  5. 03:31Why AKs Can't Be 3D Printed Like ARs
  6. 05:37AK vs AR Ejector Design Differences

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the 3D printed AK-47 receiver explode?

The 3D printed AK-47 receiver failed because the AK's design relies on locking lugs within the receiver/trunnion to handle immense stress. Unlike an AR-15 where the bolt locks into steel, the plastic receiver couldn't withstand these forces, leading to catastrophic failure upon firing.

Can you 3D print an AK-47 receiver?

Based on this experiment, 3D printing a functional AK-47 receiver is not feasible with current technology. The stresses from the locking lug system and the design of the ejector place demands on the receiver material that standard 3D printing plastics cannot meet.

What's the main difference between AK and AR-15 receiver stress?

In an AR-15, the bolt locks into the steel barrel extension, distributing stress. In an AK-47, the locking lugs are part of the receiver/trunnion, meaning the receiver itself must handle the full locking force, making it unsuitable for 3D printed materials.

What ammunition was used in the 3D printed AK test?

The test used Tula 7.62x39mm ammunition with a 122-grain Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) bullet. This is a standard caliber and common type of ammunition for the AK-47 platform.

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